GoodSAM App
As of 2 June 2025, the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SWASFT) begun alerting trained members of the public to nearby cardiac arrests via the GoodSAM Responder app.
This means that when a cardiac arrest call is received by the 999 ambulance control room, registered GoodSAM Responders within 500 metres may be notified and asked if they are able to help.
What is GoodSAM?
GoodSAM (Good Smartphone Activated Medics) uses mobile GPS technology to alert the nearest available trained responders when a cardiac arrest occurs close to their location.
Responders who accept an alert can begin cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in the crucial minutes before an ambulance arrives - giving the patient the best possible chance of survival.
Why early CPR matters
Time is critical during a cardiac arrest. The earlier high-quality CPR begins, the greater the chance of survival.
The Resuscitation Council UK estimates that around 80% of cardiac arrests happen in the home. While bystander CPR rates in the South West are already high (around 80%), outcomes can often be improved when CPR is delivered by trained responders who are alerted quickly.
We often describe GoodSAM as a virtual shout for help - using technology to get trained people to someone in cardiac arrest as fast as possible.
Strengthening the Chain of Survival
SWASFT currently has over 2,000 GoodSAM Responders trained in CPR and ready to be alerted to nearby cardiac arrests.
By expanding alerts to more trained members of the public, we aim to strengthen the Chain of Survival, which begins with:
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Early recognition of cardiac arrest
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Early, high-quality CPR
Opening up GoodSAM alerts recognises and empowers people who are willing to step forward and help save lives in their community.
Do I need equipment?
No. There is no expectation that a GoodSAM Responder will be carrying any equipment.
The most important thing is reducing the time it takes for CPR to start.
How does the GoodSAM app work?
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A 999 call is received by SWASFT and identified as a cardiac arrest
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The incident is automatically sent to the GoodSAM app
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The nearest registered responders are alerted
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Responders can:
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Accept the alert and view the incident location
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Decline the alert if unavailable, allowing the next nearest responder to be notified
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Who can register as a GoodSAM Responder?
Anyone with a valid Basic Life Support (BLS) qualification can register, including:
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Nurses, doctors and paramedics
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Emergency Care Assistants and Emergency Ambulance Associates
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Community First Responders
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Volunteer doctors
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Trained members of the public
If you are a member of the public, select GoodSAM as your verifying organisation during registration.
SWASFT staff and volunteers with a Trust ID card should select South Western Ambulance Service .
To find out more and and register:
